Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

UK-Israel Trade Negotiations — [Ian Paisley in the Chair]

20 January 2022 · 7 other contributors · 12,402 words

Opened by Bob Blackman Con Harrow East

Responding minister: Ranil Jayawardena

Foreign AffairsBusiness & Trade

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Bob Blackman raised concerns about uk-israel trade negotiations — [ian paisley in the chair] in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • The UK and Israel are natural trade partners due to shared democratic values and technological capabilities.
  • UK-Israel trade is valued at approximately 5 billion, with potential for growth in pharmaceuticals, fintech, and cyber-security.
  • Bob Blackman highlights 500 Israeli companies operating in the UK, employing many people, and notes Israel's R&D expenditure of 4.9% of GDP.

Key requests to Government

The lead MP calls for an ambitious approach in negotiations towards a comprehensive free trade agreement with Israel. He asks the Minister to provide details on the start date for consultations and updates on sector-specific ambitions, including financial services, infrastructure, and technology. Additionally, he seeks confirmation that discussions will include digital data and technology, particularly med-tech.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Bob Blackman Con Harrow East

The UK and Israel are natural trade partners due to shared democratic values and technological prowess. With the estimated value of UK-Israel trade at £5 billion, there is potential for further growth across industries such as pharmaceuticals, fintech, and cyber-security. Bob Blackman highlights that Israeli businesses have a strong presence in the UK market, with 500 companies operating here and employing thousands of people. He also notes Israel's success despite geographical and geopolitical challenges, citing its R&D expenditure of 4.9% of GDP compared to the UK's.

Other contributors (7)
  • Anum Qaisar SNP Glasgow North East

    Concerned that the UK-Israel free trade agreement lacks human rights demands on Israel. Suggests that Scottish Government should engage more meaningfully in FTA negotiation matters, urging the UK government to use every opportunity during negotiations to address Palestinian persecution and make it a red line. Points out that trade with Israel is minor compared to EU trade, and Brexit has had significant negative impacts on Scottish exports, particularly in the food and drinks industry. Requests assurances from the Minister regarding accurate labelling of Israeli goods and settlement goods to avoid misleading consumers and urges efforts to improve competitiveness of Palestinian products.

  • Damien Moore Con Southport

    Mr Moore highlighted the deep bilateral relationship between the UK and Israel, including trade ties, research collaborations, and technological advancements. He cited examples such as Teva Pharmaceuticals' contribution to the NHS and Israeli-developed medical devices like PillCam and AI-powered urine test readers. Mr Moore expressed concern over boycott campaigns against Israel that threaten this collaboration and peace efforts.

  • Greg Smith Con Mid Buckinghamshire

    Mr Smith endorsed his colleague's speech, emphasizing the economic benefits of a closer trade relationship with Israel. He noted Israeli contributions to the UK's digital economy and praised initiatives like Tesco's partnership with Trigo for autonomous shopping experiences. Mr Smith also encouraged tourism growth between the two countries and asked the Minister about actions being taken to support British businesses in expanding their presence in Israel.

  • Ian Paisley Jnr Con North Antrim

    Ian Paisley reminded Members to wear face coverings and take a covid lateral flow test before entering the estate, adhering to current guidance from the House of Commons Commissioners.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Emphasised the importance of improving trade relations with Israel, citing its fifth place in technology and cyber-security innovation. Noted UK exports to Israel were £2.3 billion in 2017, making it the UK's 42nd largest export market; imports were £1.6 billion, making it the 47th largest import source. Stressed the need for progressive trade relations in security and cited a strategic agreement between the UK and Israel to deepen trading relationship. Called for discussions with Education Ministers on joint innovation strategies. Asked if Northern Ireland companies' input could be indicated in meetings with Israel's counterparts, emphasising the need for all UK regions to benefit.

  • Matthew Offord Con Hendon

    Welcomed the growing collaboration between UK and Israel, highlighting new bilateral road map and agreements in cyber-security, academia, medicine, and Israeli investment. Called for the current Secretary of State to visit Israel soon. Inquired about the Palestinian Authority's stance on boycotts of Israel, quoting President Mahmoud Abbas from December 2013 stating that Palestinians do not seek a boycott of Israel and maintain mutual recognition with it.

  • Ruth Cadbury Lab Brentford and Isleworth

    Welcomes increasing trade links with Israel, highlighting its economic benefits for the UK. Acknowledges human rights issues, particularly illegal settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, urging the Government to address these concerns in future negotiations.

Government Response

Ranil Jayawardena

Discussed the UK's commitment to its strong trading relationship with Israel, including a new free trade agreement. Emphasized the value of sectors such as medical science and technology in the bilateral partnership. Mentioned existing trade figures of £4.6 billion and opportunities for future expansion in services like digital health solutions. Addressed concerns over Palestinian territories and arms exports by stating goods from illegal settlements do not receive benefits under the UK's trade agreement, and that export licences are granted only after thorough risk assessment.

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